Unknown to many people, open source is actually pretty good for businesses. Presently, individuals and businesses believe that just because it is free, open source software is pretty poorly made or will harm your business. What they have yet to understand though is that there are many benefits that open source software delivers to businesses.

It’s Free

It might sound tacky but it’s true, one of the main advantages that open source software can bring to your business is it’s cost-effectiveness. In other words, it’s free. This is great if you’re just starting out or your business is on a tight budget.

Security

The more people think about a problem, the more solutions they will be able to come up with. Or the more people that are looking at a closed box, the better they will be at finding the openings. That’s the kind of security provided by open source software. Because a lot of people are looking at it, the easier it will be to spot security leaks or flaws.

Quality

Again with more programmers and users tweaking with a program, it will only become better and better at doing what it was made to do. For example, if Microsoft made the Internet Explorer as open source, a lot of programmers would have a field day making it a much better browser.

Customizability

Businesses will be able to customize the software as they seem fit. This means open source software will be able to provide better and more tailored solutions and services to each particular business.

Freedom

Businesses will be able to enjoy the freedom of not only being able to use a wonderful product but also to the freedom from prices, additional charges, sudden changes, and other things that software companies tie in with their software.

Flexibility

Because you are free to do as you wish with the open source software, then you aren’t forced to upgrade the software or upgrade your hardware just to make it work. You can even use it on your old computer for as long as you want, and you won’t be forced to take any upgrades or to change your hardware.

Interoperability

There are open standards, and many businesses and individuals adhere to these. With open source software, businesses will have an easier time adhering to these standards. So if you want to be able to operate using other computers or software or operate with other businesses, then open source software can help you out.

Auditability

Because open source software is open to the public, it will be under strict scrutiny and users as well as the public will be able to make sure that it adheres to standards and that it is secure.

Support Options

Open source software or the open source movement has a rich and vast community supporting each other. When you use open source software, support is easily had.

Try Before You Buy

Another great thing about open source software is that you will be able to test it out and see if it delivers. When it does, your business can chose to continue using the product or even make a donation to the programmers.